Took my GSP duck hunting todayPosted by TulaneUVA on 1/5/13 at 6:08 pm

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The dude froze his arse off. Was unresponsive and was foaming at the mouth. Thinking he was hypothermic. A short duck hunt and $450 vet fee later, this is a PSA to remember: feed your dog a little before you go, get em a vest (I've been neglecting this), and if you're standing in water, bringing something for them to stay out of the water.

This is now the 2nd time he's been with me, and both times have been an utter disaster.

I had a little seat for him to stay out of the water a little, but it wasn't working well. I didn't think it was that cold out, but shows how much I know.

I'm not going to try and defend myself here. First time ever taking a dog out hunting myself (his first time as well), and I messed up. He was doing so well, and he just hit a brick wall all of a sudden and seemed like he was on the verge of death. Very scary

This is very surprising for me to read. I've had dogs with me when there was a light freeze (thin ice in pond) and never had any vests. Always felt like it would help the dog(s) though, but never had any issues.

I wonder if your dog is, maybe, for some reason more succeptible to cold weather issues?

Definitely wasnt saying you were at fault so to speak. You did not intentionally try and freeze your dog and got it to the vet asap! Great job! Like above poster said my labs the same, i keep a swimming pool in dog pen with them and have seen them break the ice and splash around. Try the vest and keep an eye on your dog next time, first signs get him out and dry.. May be some kind of issue individually with the dog! Either way least he is okay now!